What's a Ball Nose Tool Used for ?

What's a Ball Nose Tool Used for ?

The ball nose end mill, due to its ball-shaped cutting tip, possesses features such as high precision, high adaptability and excellent surface quality, and is widely used in various high-precision processing fields.

Main Uses of Ball Nose Tool:

1. 3D Contour Milling / Surface Profiling

Ideal for complex 3D surfaces such as molds, dies, and aerospace parts.

Smooth surface finish on curved geometries.

2. Engraving and Fine Detailing

Excellent for carving logos, letters, and patterns into materials.

3. Fillet and Radius Machining

Used to create smooth internal corners or fillets where sharp tools can’t reach.

4. Tool and Die Making

Common in mold cavities, where precision and a smooth finish are crucial.

5. Deep Pocket Milling

The round tip reduces the risk of tool breakage when working in deep, narrow spaces.

Advantages:

Produces smoother surface finishes than flat end mills.

Reduces stress concentration at corners (due to rounded profile).

Ideal for gradual tool engagement—less vibration and better chip evacuation.

Typical Materials:

Works on metals (aluminum, steel, titanium), plastics, wood, and composites—depending on the coating and tool grade. 

Common materials:

High hardness steel (HRC 45 - 65), stainless steel, aluminum alloy, copper, plastic, resin, etc.

Select the appropriate coatings based on different materials (such as DLC, TiAlN, Blue Nano, etc.)